Politics Regional Starts Finance Property Networking and lobbying The Regional Start Initiative Enterprise NI continues its The provision of spaces to ensures the voice of enterprise in focus. A force for good for support for business start ups work and grow are central to is heard where it matters. local enterprise. through flexible loan schemes. our work. Page 03 Page 06 Page 11 Page 15

Platform Exploring Enterprise Business ReBoot Social Enterprises Our Chief Executive reflects on Helping would-be Business Bootcamp fulfils a At the hub of local Social a challenging and rewarding entrepreneurs make their critical role in fast-tracking Enterprises, Enterprise NI year for Enterprise NI . business ideas become reality. business knowhow. and LEAs have a crucial role. Page 04 Page 08 Page 10 Page 16 Enterprising NI Enterprise Northern Ireland | Annual Review 2014 The Voice of Enterprise

The Definitive Retrospective: A year of innovation, enterprise and entrepreneurship. Annual Review 2014 Notes

John D’Arcy Contents Chair, Enterprise Northern Ireland

Change, challenge, risk and opportunity Politics 03 are at the core of any aspect of enterprise. So it’s no surprise that Enterprise Northern Ireland is working strategically, tactically and effectively on behalf of the enterprise 04 sector across Northern Ireland to support Platform economic and social development, growth and sustainability. The wider economic context for Northern Ireland, at this time of austerity, coupled with 06 changes to local government, make the Regional Starts role, flexibility and excellent track record of the enterprise support sector even more important than ever.

People are at the heart of what we do Exploring Enterprise 08 and how we do it. I would like to thank our Board members – those elected from our membership and our independent members – who bring experience, expertise and challenge to our strategy, Business ReBoot 10 planning and delivery of Enterprise Northern Ireland’s activities. I would also like to pay tribute to the staff of Enterprise Northern Ireland for their energy, dedication and excellence in Finance 11 helping our sector deliver for Northern Ireland – its entrepreneurs, communities and people.

Awards & Networking 12 Our Funding Partners

Property 15

Social Enterprises 16

Technology 18

Investing in Youth 19 Enterprise NI Board Members 2014/15 Chair, John D’Arcy, The Open University Vice-Chair, Angela McGowan, Danske Bank Independent, Aidan Langan, Enterprise Equity North East, Melanie Christie- Boyle, Ballymena Business Centre North East, Francis Ashe, Acorn The Business Centre Western, John Treacy, Fermanagh Enterprise Ltd Western, Ciaran Higgins, (Resigned March 2014) Cookstown Enterprise Centre Southern, Conor Patterson, Newry & Mourne Enterprise Agency Southern, Janice Symington, Down Business Centre Ltd Eastern (O), Lynne Vance, North Down Development Organisation Ltd Eastern (O), Nichola Lockhart, Ards Business Centre Ltd Eastern (I), Seamus O’Prey, Ortus - West Belfast Enterprise Board Eastern (I), Jonathan McAlpin, East Belfast Enterprise North West, Charles Kennedy, Enterprise North West North West, Brian Murray, Workspace Ltd

2 | Enterprising NI The Voice of Enterprise Politics

John D’Arcy Politics Headline Insights from our Chair

obbying and developing relationships with political representatives, at Council, LAssembly, Westminster and European level is fundamental to our commitment to represent the interests of our members and the thousands of small businesses who go through our enterprise programmes.

Two meetings of the All Party Group for SMEs took place in 2014. We invited a cross-section of the business community to meet and network with MLAs, ensuring that the issues they face are firmly on the political agenda.

The APG is chaired by Judith Cochrane MLA, with Enterprise NI providing secretarial support. The first event, in March, gave attendees the opportunity to direct their concerns around difficulties associated with starting and maintaining small businesses in Northern Ireland to guest speaker, Finance Minister Simon Hamilton.

Attendees also advocated the need for Ministers Dr Stephen Farry, Arlene Foster and Simon Hamilton joined Judith Cochrane MLA and Gordon Gough at the launch of the 2014 a strategic policy to encourage growth programme of events for the All Party Group on SMEs. The event also highlighted the ‘1 more in 4’ campaign to encourage SMEs to employ one and an environment that supports and more person over the next four years. encourages entrepreneurs to start new and grow existing businesses. Achieving the speaker at our second event. He Further meetings of the All Party Group Mr Hamilton said, “ I am determined, highlighted the work of his department will take place in 2015, to ensure that playing my part as Finance Minister, to Executive’s aim of in growing and supporting the SME SMEs first hand experiences enable achieve the Executive’s aim of growing a sector, including the issue of addressing political representatives in delivering vibrant and dynamic economy”. growing a vibrant and the skills gap, apprenticeship schemes positive outcomes for our economy. dynamic economy. and greater flexibility on employment Minister for Employment and law. The meeting was held at Law Learning, Dr Stephen Farry was guest Finance Minister, Simon Hamilton. Society House in Belfast.

Engagement European Dr. Caroline O’Kane, Information & Policy Officer, was invited to brief Shadow Secretary of State, Ivan Lewis MP on issues facing the enterprise support sector and Entrepreneurial youth entrepreneurship.

Gordon Gough was invited to meet with former Secretary of State, Owen Paterson Region 2015 MP, to discuss the current economic context in Northern Ireland for SMEs. Northern Ireland was selected as making Northern Ireland one of the leading European Entrepreneurial Region (EER) entrepreneurial regions in Europe.” Gordon Gough and John D’Arcy met 2015 at an awards ceremony in a number of newly appointed Chief Brussels. The award is given to Europe’s She added: “While inward investment is Executives of the new Super Councils, most outstanding regional strategies that essential for any country or region striving to advise them of the LEA network’s foster entrepreneurship and promote to make its mark in a competitive world, of successes in delivering business start-up innovation among small and medium equal importance is indigenous industry programmes and initiatives enterprises (SMEs). both in terms of the growth of existing firms and the need to encourage a greater The Enterprise, Trade and Investment The award follows a joint application by number of people to start new, innovative Committee invited Enterprise NI to the Northern Ireland Local Government and globally focused businesses.” identify the potential for the development Association (NILGA) and Invest Northern of a retail incubation strategy. Following Ireland and was supported by Enterprise The Minister praised the work of the local submission of a paper, Enterprise NI were Northern Ireland. Welcoming the news, business community in supporting SMEs: Enterprise NI Chief Executive, Gordon invited to lead on taking this work forward, Enterprise Minister, Arlene Foster said: “This “This fantastic achievement is another step Gough with Andrea Rodriguez Perez, in partnership with other key business award is well deserved and recognises towards creating a more vibrant culture of Member of the President’s Cabinet, support organisations. the hard work of all those involved in entrepreneurial spirit in Northern Ireland.” Committee of the Regions

Enterprise Northern Ireland Annual Review 2014 | 3 Platform Gordon Gough Starting Platform Up Since Regional Start Initiative began in 2012 we have dealt with over 15,000 enquiries Headline Insights from our Chief Executive from people looking to set up in business with more than 10,000 initial meetings with business advisers throughout the LEA network. 6,500 start-up business plans nterprise Northern Ireland (ENI) were produced surpassing our targets with undertakes three core strands of Invest NI. work on behalf of its members, namely supporting, networking The current contract officially runs to E March 2015 but may continue to October and delivery. As I reflect on the past year, I thought it might be timely to update 2015 when the new councils assume members on where we are in relation to responsibility for business start-up functions. these three strands. The Social Entrepreneurship programme SUPPORTING has set up 89 new social enterprises and Enterprise NI produces regular Policy Papers created over 220 new jobs since it started and Consultation responses on behalf in 2012. of its members. These are available from the Members Section of our website. Our Core Strands The Exploring Enterprise programme has Information and Policy Officer, Dr helped 1700 people to attain the QCF Level Caroline O’Kane, has consulted widely the work of the local enterprise network followed feedback from the LEA Chairs’ 2 qualification in Understanding Business with members on themes for policy papers for the new councils. These will provide lunch hosted this summer by John D`Arcy Enterprise with 79 going on into full time to promote the self-employment and thought leadership in enterprise and in Belfast, that the EU should provide funding employment, 62 into part time employment entrepreneurial agenda. With support from entrepreneurship initiatives. Enterprise NI is options directly for LEAs. and 286 into self-employment. Ulster Bank, a significant policy paper is delighted to have joined forces with NILGA planned for 2015, focusing on key issues to secure European Entrepreneurial Region DELIVERY Since our appointment in 2013 as the impacting on the small business and status for Northern Ireland for 2015. Since our formation in 2001 the value Northern Ireland delivery partner for Start enterprise support sectors. of contracts delivered by members on Up Loans UK, we have disbursed 143 loans The 2014 Members Survey will be behalf of Enterprise NI is over £35m. This across the region at a capital value of almost The All Party Group on SMEs (established available to members before the end of does not include the value of capital £700,000. In addition, the Northern Ireland by Enterprise NI in 2013) provides a voice the year, providing LEAs with up to date expenditure purchased by Enterprise Small Business Loan Fund has disbursed at Stormont for the LEA network and small benchmarking information to assist with NI on behalf of its members, for example, 104 loans at a value of £2.2m. These products business sector. Two meetings of the APG business planning activities. E-Commerce, E-Commerce II and Points of position the LEA network as key sources of were held in 2014, addressed by Simon Presence signage. finance for small businesses. Hamilton MLA, Minister for Finance and We launched the new Enterprise NI GRANT Personnel and Stephen Farry MLA, Minister finder service earlier this year to provide a As a membership organisation, Enterprise The Tradelinks cross border trade for Employment and Learning. Future bespoke service tailored to the requirements NI will continue to deliver a range of programme concluded earlier in the year meetings are planned for 2015. I encourage of every LEA. services to its members. The initiatives having assisted over 200 micro enterprises members to attend these meetings and detailed here compare favourably with the with 60% of businesses attending cross input into the policy agenda for SMEs in NETWORKING range of services offered by other business border networking events. Approximately Northern Ireland. As part of our advocacy service to members, support membership organisations. What 20 businesses were referred on to InterTrade we lobby government departments, and sets us apart from other membership Ireland, Invest NI and Enterprise Ireland Joint Purchasing is an area where Enterprise gather and disseminate information on organisations is the number of business support programmes. NI is able to make significant savings for its issues affecting the LEA network. One support contracts that we hold which are members. The current COBRA Business example of this is our popular Business delivered by our members. These business Advisers Toolkit is an example of this Brunch Brief series, which continued support contracts complement the massive and Enterprise NI is exploring other areas throughout the year. Our session “Spotlight public investment in the LEA network over to help members save money through on Vacant Rates” was particularly well the past 20 years. joint purchasing, eg. recycling, insurance, attended by members. telephony and Board Governance In conclusion, I would like to thank our training. We do, however, appreciate the We organised an information session for stakeholders, in particular, DETI, DEL, preference of some members to support LEAs on the new Charities Registration, and Invest NI, SEUPB, Ulster Community “local” suppliers. invited the Charities Commission along Investment, Start Up Loans UK, local councils to discuss the application process and the and the thousands of small businesses who Local Government Reform is the single Public Benefit Requirement. Enterprise NI have used our services over the past year. I biggest strategic issue facing the LEA will continue to facilitate information sharing would also like to thank the Chairman, John network since the amalgamation of LEDU, between members and act in an advocacy D’Arcy, and the Board of Enterprise NI for IRTU and IDB into Invest NI. Enterprise NI role and information disseminator during their commitment, support and strategic Tradelinks is responding to this through its strategic this process. leadership and of course the Enterprise NI relationships with the Northern Ireland staff team at Limavady who work so hard to Bows Out Local Government Association (NILGA) Meet the MEPs is an information event ensure that Enterprise NI fulfils its duties to and the LED Forum. We are preparing planned for 2015 on funding opportunities, members, stakeholders and small businesses This year saw the end of the Tradelinks policy and positioning papers promoting timescales and application processes. It across Northern Ireland. programme, which was developed to enhance all-Ireland and international The Enterprise NI website www. tool for Enterprise NI and its members. trade by assisting and growing the enterpriseni.com is an important portal In Focus, the Enterprise NI Quarterly micro-enterprise sector across Northern Connections supporting LEAs. The website receives over e-zine, is a great way for LEAs to benchmark Ireland and the border counties of 100 enquiries each week which are then business support activity and to see what is Louth, Monaghan, Cavan, Leitrim, Sligo referred to Enterprise NI members. going on throughout the network. and Donegal. The programme ended in August 2014, enterpriseni.com The Enterprise NI MIS contains details Our new Business Buzz e-zine for and by that date, had helped over 200 @EnterpriseNI of over 70,000 SMEs. This is valuable quality assured business advisers has information in terms of spotting trends just been launched and a new e-zine is small businesses to become more and assisting Enterprise NI members with planned for 2015 which will focus sustainable and competitive by developing marketing campaigns.The Enterprise NI specially on enterprise and cross border trade opportunities and Twitter account @EnterpriseNI, has over entrepreneurship policy areas and network linkages. 4500 followers and is a proven marketing small business tips and advice.

4 | Enterprising NI The Voice of Enterprise Platform Belfast Start Up Hits the High Notes

nterprise Factor is a new a six-week training programme offering Belfast-based start-up that uses students a chance to develop, market John D’Arcy, Chair of Enterprise NI, Chris music to help schools develop and run the operations for a concert Hughes of Enterprise Factor and Jordan Eentrepreneurial talent in their in their school featuring a former O’Keefe, Britain’s Got Talent finalist. students. The new programme became contestant from the X-Factor or Britain’s one of the first local recipients of finance Got Talent. from the Start Up Loans scheme which is designed to stimulate entrepreneurship Enterprise Factor ran the programme in across the UK ten schools before a planned roll out to 50 schools across Northern Ireland. The loan Enterprise Factor was founded by local supported investment in marketing and businessman Chris Hughes. It devised promotional materials.

Finance for the deal was provided by I hope to be able to export Enterprise Northern Ireland, which the programme to schools has been appointed to administer at least £3million of funding in Northern across the UK. It empowers Ireland on behalf of the Start Up the kids, gives them a taste Loans Scheme . for business at an early age and the end result generates John D’Arcy, Enterprise NI Chair said: “This is an important addition to the real excitement around the funding spectrum in Northern Ireland. schools – as well as helping There is a direct and strong link between them to raise revenue. levels of new business start-ups and economic prosperity and this finance is Chris Hughes, founder of an important part of driving growth in the Enterprise Factor Northern Ireland economy.”

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Enterprise Northern Ireland Annual Review 2014 | 5 Regional Starts Regional Starts

The Regional Start Initiative is Northern Ireland’s national business start-up programme.

It has been delivered by Enterprise NI and a new business. Enterprise NI is working The regional breakdown is: 1304

the regional LEA network since it began in to ensure that the voice of the enterprise 1409 1967 October 2012. support sector is heard in debates, North West 1095 business plans consultations and policy development North East 790 business plans To date, Local Enterprise Agencies helped processes when some economic Southern 1304 business plans would-be business owners develop 6565 development functions are transferred from Eastern 1967 business plans business plans, against a target of 6500 Invest NI to the new ‘Super Councils’ as a Western 1409 business plans 790 East North 1095 West North Southern Western Eastern plans. This is a vital first step in setting up result of the Reform of Public Administration. Regional business plan breakdown Carrickfergus gives Business a Boost

ohn O’Donnell of Carrickfergus Blooms was one of many beneficiaries of the Business JImprovement Programme run by Carrickfergus Enterprise.

The programme, developed by Carrickfergus Enterprise, provides a range of support for established businesses including one-to-one mentoring, ICT support, informative seminars on topics such as LinkedIn and Essential Fire Safety culminating with an annual ‘Celebration of Enterprise’ event to showcase local business successes.

After completing a comprehensive business plan through the Regional Start Initiative, John opened the doors of his North Street florists in October 2012. He quickly built up a reputation for his floristry throughout the Carrickfergus and Greater Belfast area.

Through funding provided under the Business Improvement Programme John launched a new professional and upmarket website, www.carrickblooms. co.uk to cater for customers wishing to place orders 24/7. orders ready and waiting to go out. Paypal support to our local business community. in Larne, John Alan’s Floral Design. He John explains: ‘The support from gives added peace of mind for secure Feedback from past participants has been saw an opportunity when a florist had Carrickfergus Enterprise via the Council- payments. I simply needed this vital extremely supportive and we will continue closed down in a prime retail location funded Business Improvement Programme, support to grow and develop my business’. to provide such support and guidance in the town. The ever-ambitious John gave my business a real boost. Today where it is needed most’. is aiming for further expansion and customers expect to be able to make an Kelli Bagchus, Manager of Carrickfergus hopes to open 3 to 4 further outlets online purchase at any time of the day or Enterprise says ‘We are delighted to be John’s business has now expanded in major retail locations across night. This morning I came in to find three able to continue to provide such further with an opening of a second shop Northern Ireland.

6 | Enterprising NI The Voice of Enterprise Regional Starts

For Philip Young, being made redundant represents professional actors and was the catalyst for starting his own voice artists, liaising with casting business. The prospect of unemployment, directors to identify their requirements uncertainty in the jobs market and the for a film, TV or theatre production, Stage Set economic downturn all contributed to sending actors to auditions, and Philip taking the decision to turn his long- handling contractual negotiations. standing dream of being his own boss into a reality. His biggest success to date was being the only agency to be successful in For Business Philip explained, “My ambition was finding an actor for the Dracula Untold always to be self-employed and through movie, recently shot in Northern Ireland. Invest NI’s Regional Start Initiative, I He has also been successful in finding got the opportunity to explore actors for TV shows including Game of the idea. I focused on my Thrones, Hollyoaks, Ripper Street and passion of acting and now Line of Duty. have created an independent actors agency”. Philip says: “the Regional Start Initiative gave me the confidence to The findings of market explore my business idea. It allowed research conducted by me to tackle my fear with developing a Philip, and the support business plan, managing accounts and provided by Antrim all the legalities involved in starting Enterprise Agency, gave him up a business.” With Northern Ireland the confidence to start up on becoming a prime location for upcoming his own. films and big-budget TV productions, Philip’s personal background and A trained actor, Philip’s knowledge of the arts scene means he Independent Agency is cast in a perfect role for success.

Declan initially starting producing Pop Notch Idea around 800 bags per month of gourmet Plant and Play Boxing Clever popcorn products using 16 domestic Draperstown may not traditionally be the electrical products. The initial So Wildlife Garden in Business first location that comes to mind when Popcorn range features a range of Popcorn is mentioned. flavours including Irish Cream, Salty Zoologist Vikki Bustard is at the helm of Randalstown fitness instructor and personal Caramel, Chewy Marshmallow and the The Plant and Play Wildlife Garden in trainer, Malachy McCann, is one of those That’s changed, since August 2013 Vanilla Chocolate. Bangor which opened during the year. lucky people who can say they have both job when So Popcorn was established by The site comprises a unique working satisfaction and their dream job. Declan McBride. Rapidly increasing demand led Declan allotment and educational wildlife garden, to access a loan from the Northern Ireland which teaches children about seasonal fruit Having gained 11 years’ experience working So Popcorn manufactures a range of Small Business Loan Fund, to invest in and vegetables. as an instructor, Malachy decided the time exciting popcorn products under the research and development to expand was right to start up on his own gym, and ‘Pop Notch’ brand. With support from the popcorn product range into savoury The business also hosts horticultural and he signed up for Invest Northern Ireland’s Workspace Enterprises Ltd in Draperstown, products. He is also exploring export conservation workshop for adults and Regional Start Initiative. Declan credits the Invest NI Regional Start opportunities across the UK and increasing children’s birthday parties, with an onsite Initiative with helping him to consolidate output to meet growing domestic retail shop selling plants, vegetables, Malachy says that as a result, “in a short his idea, develop a business plan and consumer demand. Declan now gardening books and made-to-order, hand- space of time, the business has gone from expand his product range. products 2000 bags per week for carved garden furniture. strength to strength, with more clients distribution to high profile retailers coming through the door which has led to According to Declan, ‘Starting a business including Spar,Nisa, SuperValu and the Vikki, who has prior work experience in the increase of equipment offering different during the economic downturn was Odyssey Arena and cinema. horticulture, conservation and working services for all.” daunting, but having developed a with children, also has plans to undertake successful business when times are tough, school visits, wildlife garden design and I would encourage others to take the plunge creation consultancy services. The garden and follow their dream.’ Puppy Love for comprises sensory and imaginative Ted Talks outdoor play areas, encouraging children Fido Finesse to engage in increased physical activity through play and gardening. Business for A keen pet owner, Sharon Montgomery used her lifelong personal experience Jane of owning and caring for animals to Jane Roberts new start up ‘Jane’s Teds – Made start her own business. With the with Love’ came from her skill in creating help of the Regional Start Initiative, handmade teddy bears for all occasions. Sharon established Fido Finesse, a With the backing of her husband, she signed professional dog grooming service up for Regional Start and it gave her the based in Antrim Borough. opportunity to produce a business plan.

Sharon credits the Regional Start Jane explains: “That allowed me to focus my Initiative as being the key driving thoughts and ideas for the business force in making her entrepreneurial by setting out and identifying the journey possible: “The main business objectives. I was able to identify the motivation for signing up for it marketing opportunities for the business as Vikki developed a robust business plan and going into business was the well as identifying the business operations.” economic climate. It created the with North Down Development Organisation as part of the Invest NI opportunity for me to retrain and She added, “Our biggest reward for Regional Start Initiative, which in turn exploit the growth within the our hard work was achieving an helped her secure funding from Enterprise animal care industry. When I interview with the National Museums Northern Ireland Start Up Loans to was made redundant my main of Northern Ireland, to discuss the develop the gardens and indoor areas. motivation was to take control possibility of selling the teddy bears Vikki explains: ‘None of this would have of my own employment and to within their establishments. In addition been possible without the Regional Start look at the challenge of being we have also secured a contract with the Initiative. I wouldn’t have had a clue where self-employed”. Titanic Quarter and I have now sold them to start, what funding was available and how 100 bears to sell in the shop.” to check if the business would be viable”.

Enterprise Northern Ireland Annual Review 2014 | 7 Exploring Enterprise EE2P Winning Equation for Nana’s Attic

esley Evans from Cookstown celebrated the launch of her online vintage and pre-loved clothing business Nana’s Attic, following her participation on the Exploring Enterprise 2 L(EE2P) programme. Nana’s Attic, was launched after Lesley, who worked in retail for several years, became unemployed and found it difficult to find new work. Lesley had always wanted to run her own business, and with the help of Dana McKenna at the Cookstown Enterprise Centre and the EE2P programme, she has now made that dream a reality, securing UK and international sales.

Lesley said, “At Cookstown Enterprise Centre I was introduced to Dana McKenna, who became my business mentor. I already had a business idea, and just getting started and getting some sound advice gave me the confidence to get going.

“Dana helped me to pull all my ideas together. She showed me how to set out my business plan in a proper format. I really couldn’t have done it without her support and advice – it was really, really helpful.”

Dana explained: “The programme provides an insight into starting a business and gets candidates thinking about the possibilities within their grasp. We can then help them take the next steps to help them fulfil their ambitions.”

It is encouraging to see that by the end of the third year, 1,400 people have completed the Exploring Enterprise2 Programme, with more going forward for the qualification in year 4.

Gordon Gough, Chief Executive, Enterprise Northern Ireland

The Exploring Enterprise 2 Programme is The programme entered its fourth and Enterprise qualification will be awarded. Exploring an Enterprise Northern Ireland initiative. final year in April 2014, building upon The aim of EE2P is to create a pool of new It is offered free to people, aged 16+ years impressive results and achievements. businessesley talent Evans within from Northern Cookstown Ireland’s Enterprise 2 and not in employment, and to those most deprivedcelebrated communities. the launch of her online working 16 hours or less a week. At the end of March 2014, 1,400 vintage and pre-loved clothing Programme participants had secured the Level 2 LFrom therebusiness the LEA Nana’s network Attic, helpsfollowing her Participants can include the long term Understanding Business Enterprise candidatesparticipation take on the necessaryExploring Enterprise steps 2 unemployed, lone parents, stay at home qualification, against a target of 1,176, an to(EE2P) help programme. them fulfil their business mums, people with disabilities or with low achievement of 114%. ownership ambitions. or no qualifications, young people not in Nana’s Attic, was launched after Lesley, who education, older workers and the recently In October 2014, a further 336 participants EE2Pworked is part-financedin retail for several by the years, European became retired. There are no qualifications submitted their portfolios and are Socialunemployed Fund, theand Department found it difficult for to find required to gain entry to the programme currently awaiting the outcome of the Employmentnew work. Lesley and had Learning always and wanted Enterprise to run and it is delivered at a pace specifically moderation process, which will determine Northernher own business, Ireland. and with the help of Dana tailored to suit individual needs. whether their Understanding Business McKenna at the Cookstown Enterprise

8 | Enterprising NI The Voice of Enterprise Exploring Enterprise Enterprising Enterprising Reflex Programme Felt Different for Jane

Having set up her handmade felt crafts business, Namaste Nepal, earlier this year, Jane Prendy was struggling to get the most out of being self-employed. She explains:

“I called in to LEDCOM for information about joining a craft course and ultimately joined the EE2P. This gave me the opportunity to understand more about marketing, finances and business planning, and the chance to meet a great group of fellow entrepreneurs. Exploring Enterprise 2 participant Beverley Ward of B’Serene Therapy with “Our tutor, Emma, was motivating and Leo Mullan, Business Advisor, Causeway inspirational, and I loved every part of Enterprise Agency this very practical course.”

Beverley Ward from Coleraine set up Despite encountering many and completed the course. Beverley’s the best out of life. But I could never her reflexology business B’serene having challenges, Beverley achieved nine mum then told her about EE2P and how have set up my own business completed EE²P through Causeway GCSEs, a BTEC National Diploma in it might help her to get a reflexology without the support of Leo and the Enterprise Agency Caring Services and a degree in Psychology business up and running. team at Causeway Enterprise and I’m more with Education. determined than ever to make a success Following a number of health issues, Inspired by the Programme, she said: of my business.” Beverley took the first steps back into Two years ago she took up her next “It gave me the insight into what is the job market as a self-employed challenge, a two-year course in required to set up a business and reflexologist after completing the Reflexology. Her tutors were concerned really boosted my confidence. I’ve Exploring Enterprise 2 Programme that her disability would stand in never allowed my disability to get the through Causeway Enterprise Agency. her way but she proved them wrong, better of me and am determined to make

Ards and Crafts Explore Enterprise

Newtownards curtain maker, Carol Buchanan, and interior designer, Siobhan McNeilly were among the first candidates from Ards Business Agency to benefit from the Exploring Enterprise 2 Programme.

Carol who had been out of work through chronic illness, and Siobhan who was made redundant from her previous job, both took their first steps into self-employment after completing the EE2P.

As a result Carol established an ever- growing soft furnishing business, called Lisbarnett Soft Furnishings, whilst Siobhan has set up her own flourishing interior design consultancy, Vonni Grace Interiors.

Carol Buchanan said, “I left school with no formal qualifications but worked my whole life. I also did a significant amount of voluntary work in the local community. I was hospitalised nine times in one year with a debilitating illness and I found it home. This Programme provided me with at South Eastern Regional College. She amazing and really helped build my impossible to hold down a job. the insight and confidence to get my own explains: “The programme was brilliant. It confidence and self-belief to turn my business started.” gave me a real insight by providing me with dream into a viable business idea. I have “When I was in remission for approximately the knowledge and support to develop my now been running my own interior design two years I wanted to get back into work as Siobhan McNeilly, who worked in the retail own business plan. consultancy for just over six months on a quickly as possible. I knew that my type of and property sectors before being made part-time basis and the projects have been condition would require that I work from redundant had studied interior design “Melanie, our business mentor, was steadily coming in. “

Enterprise Northern Ireland Annual Review 2014 | 9 Business ReBoot Hola to the Spanish for Entrepreneur

hile on maternity leave following the birth of her first child, languages and Wteaching graduate Lynn Ross Business saw an opportunity for a language school for children. Boot Camp Her business idea brought together her language skills and qualifications The Business Boot Camp Programme is run in to provide language classes for under partnership by Enterprise Northern Ireland, 4s and their parents. The Result? Full Circle and Advantage. Hola Muchachos It is open to all budding or established 16-35 year Lynn said, “Language classes were ideal old entrepreneurs based in the council areas of as I was already teaching Spanish to my Belfast, Lisburn, Castlereagh, Newtownabbey, daughter. It felt like a natural step into the North Down, Carrickfergus and Donegal. market at the end of my maternity leave. I started up just one class per week alongside In the past 24 months, 83 young people have my part time employment with the South been through the ‘Start’ element of the Business Eastern Education and Library Board where Boot Camp Programme resulting in 61 starting I travelled around schools teaching Spanish their own business. In the same period, almost to children from P1 – P7. 83 businesses have participated in the ‘Grow’ future direction for the company as well leap into sub-contracting work out to element of the programme and set about Lynn credits the Business Boot Camp as strengthening weaknesses in her tutors. I hope to be in all major towns in developing business expansion plans for their programme with helping her get her management of the business. NI with my under 4s and after school businessesThe programme is now in its final inventively named business ‘Hola clubs, and I am keeping the possibility year of delivery and it is expected that in total Muchachos’ up and running, providing She says, “I am now at a high growth stage of franchising open as an option in 263 (137 young entrepreneurs & 126 young her with a robust business plan and of the business and am preparing to take a the future.” business owners) will have participated on the programme when completed in March 2015.

It is funded under the European Regional Development Fund through the European A Lingering Success INTERREG IVA Structural Funds Programme.

The Síoda Lingerie label is a collection of delicate silk French knickers, ruched knickers, shorts, camisoles, cami-knickers, chemises, negligees, robes and accessories. Each exquisite item is designed and handmade individually in Belfast.

With support from Ortus, this is one local company that is still flying the flag for homegrown Irish products in the declining garment sector which was formerlya staple of the local economy. Having come from an entrepreneurial family, Mary was keen to turn her engineering qualifications into something more creative.

Mary says, “My parents and both my maternal and paternal grandparents were self-employed. We were always

“The Business Boot Camp Programme is incredible. But you’ll only get out what you put in, so not only would I recommend joining the programme, I would say... Don’t waste the fantastic opportunity!” encouraged to earn our own money as an engineer suited me academically, me a real tangible insight into how and started making things to sell in but it dampened my creative needs. my business plan should be in order Mary Murphy the craft shop from 8 years old. Working “The Boot Camp Programme gave for it to be a plan for the future.”

10 | Enterprising NI The Voice of Enterprise Finance Sense of Adventure Brings Expansion for Rostrevor Firm

ounded in 1991, East Coast range and bunkhouse accommodation in Adventure started out as a one- the Knockbarragh Valley outside Rostrevor. man operation hiring canoes on In the summer it attracts up to 200 visitors FWarrenpoint beach. per day. The latest investment allowed the firm to build six self-catering camping pods Today the firm, headed up by Mark, Ian and create three additional jobs. and Jennifer Cumming, employs 30 people and provides an outdoor education Mark Cumming, Managing Director, said: programme, leisure pursuits and corporate “The NI Small Business Loan Fund helped team building activities from five locations us expand our outdoor facilities. Camping around Carlingford Lough. has evolved over the last number of years with the emergence of glamping and East Coast Adventure received a boost to these pod facilities, which bring a little bit Gordon Gough and Cara Dallat of Enterprise Northern Ireland with entrepreneur and former its business with a loan from the Northern of luxury to camping, have become very investor on Dragon’s Den James Caan, Chairman of the UK Government’s Start Up Loan Scheme Ireland Small Business Loan Fund, which popular worldwide. enabled it to expand its infrastructure and create new jobs. “The pods contain a table and seating area from Russia spend several weeks here, Operations Director, Ian Cumming, that can sleep up to four people, with one utilising the pods and taking part in our outlined plans for expansion and one-of- Over the last five years, the firm expanded of the pods being converted into a toilet and developing language programme, ‘Active a-kind camping experiences: “We have to include a water-based activity centre, a shower facility. There is also an external Learning Ireland’. We have since pitched plans to build a tepee, as well as creating a mountain bike centre with the only uplift camp kitchen and BBQ area for people to the language programme to seven communal area for the camping pods service in Northern Ireland, a golf driving prepare meals. Recently we had a school additional Russian schools” with further job creation.”

Export Sales Slam Dunk

Basketball Direct, located in Londonderry, has received support from the Northern Ireland Small Business Loan Fund that they say will help finance working capital requirements and enable them to break into new export markets.

Launched in January 2013, Basketball Direct is an online store that sells basketball clothing, equipment and accessories across the world, currently shipping to 90 countries. Owner Niall McDermott identified a gap in the UK and Irish market to launch a locally- based business since similar online retailers are American-based. The key strategic advantage is quality products at tighter pricing and quicker delivery.

The investment from the NI Small Business Loan Fund will allow the company to complete a rebranding exercise, develop their website and increase stock levels in order to pursue new export opportunities. The business is also receiving e-business support from Invest NI. Mr McDermott said: “Our aim is to continually expand and diversify our range of products. We have InnovateHer A Positive Career Choice plans to increase our warehouse storage space in the next couple of months which InnovateHER is a tailored programme have the opportunity to meet with The participants from the Mid-Ulster region means we can increase our inventory of designed to encourage entrepreneurship as experienced female entrepreneurs to hear of Northern Ireland (Dungannon, Cookstown stock and hire more staff. a career choice for women. their start-up stories. and Magherafelt Council areas) will directly benefit from the programme, whilst the use We want to increase our export Dungannon Enterprise Centre was awarded With the gender gap in Northern Ireland of social media to share the journey of the markets as basketball is a global £20,000 by Ulster Bank parent Royal Bank entrepreneurship showing no signs project with others will ensure that its reach sport. I approached the Fund to of Scotland for InnovateHer. of closing, Denise Murtagh, Business is greatly enhanced. help finance the working capital Development Manager with Dungannon requirements and to aid the The Centre received the support from Enterprise Centre, explained: “Women Making the announcement were Colleen development of our website that the RBS Inspiring Women in Enterprise taking part will benefit by being able Harte, owner of Lucy Annabella Organics would enable us to break into fund, and will use the funding to to create their own opportunities and and an InnovateHer mentor; Denise Murtagh, new markets. The Fund was very bring women’s networking and skills learn the skills and knowledge to take Dungannon Enterprise Centre and co- development together in one tailored advantage of them. The funding will pay founder of Dekala Jewellery; Shauna Burns supportive of the business and innovative programme. Project highlights for masterclasses and experiential learning of the Ulster Bank and Alanna Collins, shared my vision for growth. will include mentoring and the ‘Inspire Me’ experience through ‘off-site’ best practice Dungannon Enterprise Centre and Dekala masterclass, where participants will visits to role-model entrepreneurs”. Jewellery co-founder. Niall McDermot

Enterprise Northern Ireland Annual Review 2014 | 11 Awards & Networking LEAs get Royal seal of approval

he Queen’s Award for Enterprise Promotion is the pinnacle of national recognition for Tcompanies and people promoting entrepreneurship and encouraging business enterprise.

Jayne Taggart, Chief Executive of Causeway Enterprise Agency received an individual Award in recognition of her remit as advocate for enterprise and entrepreneurship in the Causeway and Moyle area. Since joining the Agency in 1994, and along with her staff, Jayne has supported 1,085 business start-ups over the past 10 years, generating an economic contribution to the Causeway area of £65 million and 1,734 jobs.

Jayne said, “This award also recognises the hard work and dedication of my team and our Board and acknowledges our commitment to enterprise development, the local economy and reflects our passion for developing and supporting our local community.”

The award was presented by Business Secretary, Vince Cable, with Jayne and the Jayne Taggart, Chief Executive of Causeway Enterprise Agency attends a reception at Buckingham Palace in honour of being Northern Ireland’s other recipients later attending an event at only personal recipient of the Queens Award for Enterprise in 2014. Buckingham Palace, hosted by the Queen. Workspace Do The Business For Queen’s Award

The Workspace Group, a social enterprise a key part of our ethos, from our businesses based in Draperstown, were one of only that work in energy efficiency, to the nine companies from across the United community development work we promote Kingdom to win the prestigious Queen’s and other businesses we assist through Award for Enterprise in the area of Workspace Enterprises. Sustainable Development. “This award continues a great tradition of The award marks the Workspace Group’s recognition by the Queen’s Award in this success in promoting regeneration, and the area, as it is the fifth to be awarded to people achievements of its subsidiary companies, and businesses in the Draperstown area.” Homeseal, Elite Energy and Therm Tech, working in the area of energy efficiency. Workspace also received the Northern Ireland Chamber Award for Sustainability. Brian Murray, Chief Executive said, This award is in recognition of the significant “Sustainable development has always been contribution that the Workspace Group has made in demonstrating commercially successful sustainability and aiding regeneration. And to make it a hat trick, the Workspace Group was also announced as the latest Big Society Award winner by the Prime Minister, David Cameron.

The Group, which was set up in 1985 by the local community, now has a turnover Pictured above L-R Adele McIvor, The Workspace Group; William McKeown, Board member, exceeding £10m per annum, employs The Workspace Group; Laurence O’Kane, Board member, The Workspace Group; Johnathan 148 members of staff, operates from nine Payne, Corramore Construction and Sam McCloskey, Board member, The Workspace Group locations in Northern Ireland, one in Pictured opposite L-R Georgina Grieve, Homeseal General Manager and Enda Daly, Property Donegal and also has operations in Wales Manager, both from The Workspace Group and England.

12 | Enterprising NI The Voice of Enterprise Awards & Networking LEDCOM reaches the GOLD standard

arne Enterprise Development Centre, with the special guest another Company Ltd (LEDCOM ) – great Northern Ireland success story, became the first LEA and the first Michael McKillop. Michael is one of the Lsocial enterprise with under 25 most successful Paralympic athletes of employees in Northern Ireland, to achieve all time, with 10 gold medals in major the prestigious Investors in People (IiP) competition, five World titles, and three Gold award. LEDCOM is one of Enterprise Paralympic wins to his name, including Northern Ireland’s founding members. two world records.

Established in 1985 as the Local Enterprise Michael, who has a form of cerebral palsy Agency and business and enterprise and developed epilepsy at the age of 14, centre for the Borough of Larne, LEDCOM hasn’t lost a Paralympic race since 2006. is an award-winning social enterprise Michael, and his father Paddy – who just with an extensive track record in local happens to be his coach and himself was economic development. Since then it awarded Northern Ireland Sports Coach of has provided over 10,000 mentoring/ the Year – shared some of their secrets in information/advice/training sessions, achieving incredible gold medal success in helped over 900 new start up business sport, with application to any business which themselves support over 1500 or organisation. jobs, and supported over 90 new social enterprises start ups which have created over 250 jobs. Life isn’t simple. LEDCOM Chief Executive Officer, Ken Business isn’t simple. Nelson, said the award showed the company’s deep commitment to achieving Getting a gold medal excellence in developing and supporting was a long journey. I had its staff and continually improving its quality of service as a business support to build a team around organisation. Paying tribute to the LEDCOM me to achieve my goals. staff he said: In business you have “This Gold award is recognition of the past 29 years of supporting local businesses and to work together to individuals wanting to further their careers.” achieve your goals.

A celebratory event was held in the Michael McKilllop agency’s Willowbank Rural Conference Ground-breaking Success Story

Big dreams start small and for one north Fast-forward 12 years and the Gardiners coast couple, the journey from a two-man have gone from a two-man team to catering company to nationally accredited employing around 120 people province- coffee shop chain has been nothing short wide. Says Darren: “Karen did the Start of amazing. Your Own Business course with Causeway Enterprise Agency and in our first year, With the support of Causeway Enterprise our turnover was £63,000. This year, it’s Agency, Darren and Karen Gardiner probably going to be £4m”. originally benefited from a modest loan to launch a catering company. Based at Ground has been voted in the top 50 Loughanhill, the pair worked hard for the coffee houses in the UK by theGuardian next three years, before deciding to invest in and, with numerous other awards Innovation Award for the Ground Espresso Bars brand. besides, for Ground Espresso Bars, it’s onwards and upwards. Fermanagh Enterprise client Few could have predicted the explosion in local coffee culture, but the Gardiner’s spotted a gap in the market David Moorehead from Green Sword break down oil in the soil, on water and which has paid dividends. “Our Environmental used 20 years of on hard surfaces. The business’s major kitchens for Ground were originally experience to develop a breakthrough strengths are the innovative nature of based in the CEA premises,” says microbial liquid that breaks down oil. the product and its range of applications. Darren. “It was very useful to David has been working with Queen’s have premises available without A client of Fermanagh Enterprise Ltd, University and the University of Ulster to having to sign up for long leases Green Sword Environmental won the carry out tests, and he is also working with and it really got us going. We then start-up category in the Innovation awards Invest NI and Fermanagh Enterprise Ltd to outgrew those and got our own jointly sponsored by DARD and Teagasc in attract investors. facilities. “We went to CEA again association with JFC Manufacturing and when we were expanding, the Irish Farmers Journal. With field trials planned in the Middle with Ground going in East, David sees big potential for cleaning to Waterstones The cleaning product is a blend of bacterial decommissioned oil platforms in the and Next.” spores and bio-stimulating agents that North Sea.

Enterprise Northern Ireland Annual Review 2014 | 13 Awards & Networking Inaugural Events

Business Connections Events

Enterprise NI hosted two Business Enterprise Awards Connections events giving Business Bootcamp participants the opportunity to come together to explore opportunities for cross border trade, make contacts and network. he inaugural Northern Ireland Enterprise Awards were held In recognition of the cross border nature of in November 2013, with over the Bootcamp programme, the first event T200 attendees gathering at the was held in Abbey Hotel, Donegal Town in Holiday Inn, Belfast. February. Guest speakers included Grainne Kelly of Bubble Bum, John Conaghan of Organised and hosted by Enterprise Carecall and Annette Houston of PaddySnax. Northern Ireland, they showcased best practice by the small business community and enterprise support providers across the region.

Keynote speaker was Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment, Arlene Foster, who said, “Entrepreneurs are the lifeblood of any economy and it is vital that every avenue is explored when it comes to encouraging entrepreneurial spirit”. Attendees at Donegal Business Connections event. We’ve seen a fantastic A second event was held in the Hilton Hotel, From left: John D’Arcy, Chairman of Enterprise Northern Ireland; Arlene Foster, Minister for response to these awards Belfast in May 2014, with an array of guest Enterprise, Trade and Investment; Gordon Gough, Chief Executive of Enterprise Northern speakers sharing their business experiences – not just in the quality of Ireland; Melody Hossaini, social entrepreneur and former contestant on The Apprentice at the and providing tips for success. the entrants but in their 2013 Northern Ireland Enterprise Awards. enthusiasm. Helping new These included Oscar Wooley from Suki businesses to thrive through Tea, Shauna McCarney-Blair from Heavenly innovative marketing and Tasty Organics, and husband and wife team, Sean and Leona McAllister, from product development is DiscoverEverAfter/PlotBox. an important part of any economic recovery, so it’s important that we give a proper platform to those who do it well. Gordon Gough, Chief Executive, Enterprise Northern Ireland

The Minister continued, “Enterprise Belfast Business Connections: (L-R) Donal Northern Ireland does great work Leahy, Enterprise Northern Ireland, Shauna in supporting and representing McCarney-Blair from Heavenly Tasty Organics; entrepreneurs right across Northern Pier Morrow, Belfast City Council; compere Ireland. These awards are an important Claire McCollum; Leona McAllister and Sean opportunity to celebrate the diverse McAllister from DiscoverEverAfter; and range of business talent and development Gordon Gough, Chief Executive of Enterprise opportunities that exist through the Northern Ireland. LEA network”. Business Brunch Brief Series Melody Hossani, social entrepreneur and From left: John D’Arcy, Melody Hossani and Helen McKenna from Clarity (far right) congratulate a former contestant on the BBC television Brian O’Neill, Enterprise North West, on winning Social Economy Adviser of the year (2013) at Enterprise NI launched a series of Business show ‘The Apprentice’ was the special the inaugural Northern Ireland Enterprise Awards. Brunch Brief meetings, providing LEA guest at the Awards. Chief Executives and senior staff with the opportunity to network and to learn more about policy areas affecting small business Enterprise Awards 2013 and enterprise support. Roll of The opening event in November 2013 saw Business Start Up of the Year Ciaran McMenamin Of LignumInteriors, Downpatrick Enterprise NI partner with DETI’s Innovation Honour Best Business Growth Strategy by a Young Entrepreneur Joanne Casey of Glowmetrics, Belfast Policy Unit to hold a consultation event on the draft Northern Ireland Innovation Exporter of the Year Gary Tinsdale of Tinsdale Wood Design, Ballymena Strategy for Northern Ireland that was Exploring Enterprise2 Programme Participant Achievement Award Steven Mackay, Portrush launched this autumn. Social Economy Advisor of the Year Brian O`Neill of Enterprise North West, Derry The second Business Brunch Brief was held Member website of the year ORTUS, The Business Development Agency in April, and focused on compulsory Best Social Media Campaign by a Local Enterprise Agency Omagh Enterprise Company registration with the Charity Commission. The Series continued in September 2014 on Regional Start Programme, Best LEA Delivery Agent Cookstown Enterprise Centre the theme of “Vacant Rating with a particular Best Marketing campaign by a Local Enterprise Agency Causeway Enterprise Agency emphasis on exclusion categories.” If there are any topics you feel would be suitable for Promoting Entrepreneurial Spirit LEDCOM future events let us know.

14 | Enterprising NI The Voice of Enterprise Property The Cube Shape of Business

welve months ago Dungannon Enterprise Centre opened its doors to The Cube. Since then the Tinnovative space has become a thriving base for local businesses.

The Cube was an imaginative way to convert 13 recycled steel cabins that previously carried cargo from China and were also on site at the 2012 London Olympic Games.

The steel containers were redesigned to construct a number of small start-up business units. Each of the multi-coloured cabins comes with heating, electricity and an attractive rental price of £50 per week, which includes rates and superfast broadband.

The aim of The Cube was to create a business community with the purpose of nurturing new talent and developing established businesses. Since its opening, The Cube has operated at full capacity with 8 new businesses growing out of the complex into larger premises.. The concept was the brainchild of of building more workspace for this After visiting The Cube, Arlene Foster, Such is the level of demand Brian MacAuley, Chief Executive of purpose. It really has matched a need for Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Dungannon Enterprise Centre, which is small start-up business space.” The fact Investment, recommended that members for units we are exploring the home to over 70 businesses employing that so many tenants have already moved of the Enterprise, Trade and Investment potential of building more over 280 people. out to bigger premises after establishing Committee should visit Dungannon workspace for this purpose. themselves within the Cube is evidence Enterprise Centre and see firsthand the He said, “such is the level of demand of the growth strategy of Dungannon thriving business Cube in action. for units we are exploring the potential Enterprise Centre Banbridge District Enterprises Ltd celebrate silver anniversary

Banbridge District Enterprises Ltd company part funded the development celebrated their 25th anniversary with of Dunbarton House, bringing much Enterprise Trade and Investment Minister needed office accommodation to the town, Arlene Foster joining company directors and in 2011 Rathfriland Enterprise Centre and invited guests for a special event. was also officially opened by Minister Company Chairman, Dr Gordon Byrne, Arlene Foster. Over the past 25 years, reflected on the early days, describing how, Banbridge District Enterprises Ltd have £1m Enterprise in June 1989, Banbridge District Council contributed enormously to the economic spearheaded a drive to establish an development of the district, consistently enterprise centre in the area. delivering quality advice and guidance to investment to regenerate those starting and expanding their business, A site at Scarva Road Industrial Estate was and managing 55,000 sq. ft. of workspace identified, with offices and workspace which is 100% occupied. Ballymena Town Centre accommodation for new businesses built and officially opened in 1992. In 1998, Speaking at the celebratory event Banbridge District Enterprises Ltd began and praising the contribution that the An exciting enterprise investment in regeneration of Ballymena town centre. to manage the business centre on behalf voluntary directors of the company have Ballymena will see prime retail premises I have great confidence in our Town of the Council, completing an extension made, Minister Foster said: “This company in the Church Street area of the town Centre and I believe our capital during 1994 to add an additional 10,000sq ft. has addressed a real need for quality converted into an 8,000 sq ft business investment, programme of initiatives of workspace. workspace and is indeed a one stop centre providing business advice, and partnership approach will help shop for those starting and developing a exhibition space, conference facilities and make our town centre accessible to In 2008, and working closely with Gilford business within the Banbridge office accommodation. everyone from the voluntary, Community Regeneration Company, the District Council area”. community, education and business The £1m scheme is the brainchild of support sector and above all accessible Ballymena Business Centre, a social for our local entrepreneurs”. enterprise that has long contributed to local economic regeneration. The Centre Melanie Christie Boyle, Chief Executive will promote opportunities for private and of Ballymena Business Centre, described social entrepreneurs to start and grow how this innovative and fresh approach their business in Ballymena town centre. to town centre regeneration would support thirty entrepreneurs from the Alderman PJ McAvoy, Chair of Ballymena creative sector to start their business in a Business Centre said, “Not only are we retail incubation environment in a way celebrating our 25th Anniversary but we that would not have been realised are marking this special anniversary with without the intervention of Ballymena a long term financial commitment to the Business Centre.

Enterprise Northern Ireland Annual Review 2014 | 15 Social Enterprises Social Enterprise at the Hub of the Community

Social Enterprise: Businesses with primarily social objectives whose surpluses are principally reinvested for that purpose in the business or in the community, rather than being driven by the need to maximise profit for shareholders and owners.

timulating entrepreneurship Social Enterprise Hub, launched by the appetite and interest for new types of social and the development of the then Minister for Social Development, businesses is there and we look forward to social economy remain Nelson McCausland MLA. uncovering and supporting these ambitious Simportant challenges for the NI and innovative ideas. “ Executive. Recognising the importance This Hub, based at Ballymena’s Ecos of a supportive environment for social Centre, will serve the ten current local WEST BELFAST HUB enterprises to thrive in growing the council areas of Larne, Carrickfergus, Ortus the Business Development economy, three of Enterprise Northern Cookstown, Ballymena, Ballymoney, Agency were awarded a contract to Ireland’s LEA members found themselves Antrim, Magherafelt, Coleraine, Moyle manage and deliver the West Belfast Social at the forefront of the new Social and Newtownabbey. Enterprise Hub. Enterprise Hub initiative. WESTERN ZONE The new West Belfast Social Enterprise The project is part of a pilot scheme by the The Western Zone Social Enterprise Hub Hub is located on 129 Springfield Road, Department of Social Development and was one of two innovative business with two further retail incubation units the Department of Enterprise, Trade and support programmes launched in located on the busy Falls Road. The new Investment to develop 11 Social Enterprise Enniskillen by Enterprise, Trade and Hub offers business advice, free hot desks, Hubs across Northern Ireland over a two- Investment Minister Arlene Foster The free meeting and training space and year period. Social Enterprise Hub, will be based at business information sessions, as well the Clinton Centre, Enniskillen, providing as business clinics and free mentoring Each hub will service areas of advice and support across the Western support. Retail incubation units allow multiple deprivation to help address Social Investment Fund (SIF) zone of social enterprises to test trade for up to six unemployment and community eyesores Fermanagh, Limavady, Omagh and Strabane months rent free with access to heavy on- by encouraging and helping new social District Council areas. street footfall. entrepreneurs and social enterprises with an idea for a new product. They will The Minister also launched the First Stop The West Belfast Partnership Board have offer free workshops, training, advice and Shop, a business development initiative already started test trading with their new mentoring support. part-funded by Invest NI and ERDF social enterprise business, a Craft Collective. under the Sustainable Competitiveness NORTHERN ZONE Programme to support business The West Belfast Social Enterprise Hub Larne-based LEDCOM, a long established development in the Fermanagh District follows on from Ortus’ success in delivering and successful social enterprise, was Council area. the Belfast city centre City Business Hub. appointed to manage the Northern Zone City Business Hub, which was launched in Cllr Bert Johnston, Chairman of Fermanagh November 2013, provides drop-in clients District Council, said: “I would encourage with comprehensive support services all local businesses and social enterprises including business advice, referral services, The Ecos Centre is an to take advantage of the support and free meeting and conference spaces, free excellent location for the opportunities being provided.” information, seminars and hot-desks. As at Northern Zone Social Enterprise August 2014, over 1650 people had used the Dr Nick O’Shiel, Social Enterprise Hub services of the Hub. Hub and it will provide excellent Programme Manager, said: “We know from support to the social economy our experience and research that the across the ten Council areas. The reorganisation of local government in 2015 will bring with it enhanced responsibilities for community planning and Left: Attendees at the launch of the economic development, and Northern Zone Social Enterprise the Social Economy Hub is Hub: (L-R:) Rodger McKnight, Acting Chief Executive of Ballymena Borough; well-placed to help deliver Cllr Audrey Wales MBE, Mayor of economic regeneration. Ballymena;Nelson McCausland MLA; Ken Nelson, Chief Executive, LEDCOM; Cllr Audrey Wales MBE, Mayor of Ballymena Cllr Hubert Nicholl, Deputy Mayor of Ballymena

16 | Enterprising NI The Voice of Enterprise Social Enterprises

Complementing existing support on offer from Invest NI, the First Stop Shop will provide advice and support to individuals and community and voluntary groups. In addition to this the Social Enterprise hub will assist those with social enterprise ideas.

Arlene Foster, Minster for Enterprise Trade and Investment

Pictured above at the launch of the Western Zone Social Enterprise Hub: are: (L-R) Gerry McKibben, DSD: Eithne McNamee, Invest NI; Minister Arlene Foster; Dr Nick O’Shiel, Omagh Enterprise Company and Mary MacRory, Omagh Enterprise Company.

Enterprise Northern Ireland Annual Review 2014 | 17 Technology

CEO of Ormeau Business Ormeau firms Park, Patricia McNeill; John Lennon of Novosco; access amongst Craigavon Lord Mayor of Belfast Nichola Mallon and fastest internet Neil McCallion, Rehab Studio speeds in the world

Going 30 Belfast businesses, including a provider of interactive advertising to Google and Disney, benefit from access to some of the fastest internet connection speeds in the world through a new deal with Novosco. Speeds of up to one- Green gigabyte-per-second are available to Ormeau Business Park tenants including rehabstudio, O4 Research and Softsign raigavon Industrial Development as part of the Belfast City Council Organisation (CIDO) took the next ‘Superconnected Cities’ scheme. step in their pledge to Go Green Cby fitting a 20kw solar PV system Novosco is the preferred supplier on the roof of their head office, the i2 and Director, John Lennon explains: Innovation Centre in Portadown. “By providing each business with vouchers of up to £3,000, the scheme The i2 Innovation Centre in Portadown was is helping them to access some of the built in 2008 and designed to allow natural fastest internet connection speeds light to flow freely through it. The building available for costs starting at about also incorporated an air to water heat pump £10 per month. Belfast City Council as a renewable energy source. The pump provides vouchers to cover the cost absorbs heat from the outside air and this of installation and firms then pay a heat can then be used in the under floor modest rental fee. heating system and hot water. According to Neil McCallion of Sustainable energy specialists, Amber rehabstudio,: “With 75 employees across Green, installed a 20kw system three international offices and clients like consisting of eighty solar panels. As Disney, Google and Red Bull, a very fast, CIDO are such a high electricity consumer robust and reliable internet connection they will have little to export back to the is essential to allow us to quickly and grid but there will be a significant saving on efficiently transfer our digital content their bills and reduced co2 emissions. between offices and to clients.”

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18 | Enterprising NI The Voice of Enterprise Investing in Youth Advance Pilot for Young Entrepreneurs

he Advance Programme, Advance Manager, Audrey Murray a £300,000 pilot aimed at explained: “Advance has been encouraging young people into incredibly successful so far in sourcing employment in social enterprises, the right person for the right job and there T are a number of posts out there that are was created by LEDCOM in partnership with Enterprise Northern Ireland. waiting to be filled. We’ve been really impressed with the young people who Advance offers 24 weeks’ paid have applied for the scheme; they just employment and on-the-job training want a chance to prove themselves.” for young people. It created job opportunities for 40 young people Each of the young people will also across Northern Ireland, matching complete Enterprise Northern Ireland’s young people with social enterprises Exploring Enterprise 2 Programme, which requiring staff. gives them a recognised qualification in business studies. They will then receive The aim was to allow the young employee mentoring support and attend interviews to demonstrate their capability with the with the social enterprises. goal that the social enterprise would that at least 50% of the recruits will happen; they have 24 weeks to prove then transform the short-term post into a Ms Murray added, “These are real be retained by the companies. It’s up to employers that they have what permanent job. jobs, not a placement and our goal is to each young person to make that it takes.” Business support for LEDCOM NXT- celebrates GEN-BIZ Lisburn graduates adult learners Fermanagh Enterprise Ltd was one of the first LEAs to be established in Northern Launching the Lisburn’s Ireland, and this year they were awarded Graduate Into Business funding by the Royal Bank of Scotland to Programme are : deliver NXT-GEN-BIZ. This is an exciting Aisling Owens, Lisburn new initiative aimed at helping 24 young Enterprise Organisation; people in the Omagh and Fermanagh Alderman Allan Ewart, areas move into self-employment. Lisburn City Council; Hazel King, Lisburn City According to Siobhan Colton, Project Council; Lynn Ross from Leader of NXT-GEN-BIZ, “The RBS Hola Muchachos with Inspiring Youth Enterprise funding means daughter Maisie; Mary this project can be delivered locally, in a Young, Invest NI. More than 130 local people returned to rural area. It will give participants easy adult education over the last year, thanks access to on-going expert advice without to a joint programme between Northern having to travel long distances. Since Regional College and LEDCOM. they’ll be able to stay close to home, they’ll benefit from family support as they Encouraging graduates to start their own support is an ideal opportunity for young This was the first year of a three-year develop their enterprises”. business is a key priority. This was the driving adults in the Lisburn area to bring their programme which aims to increase adult focus behind Lisburn City Council’s Graduate entrepreneurial dreams to fruition.” enrolment in essential skills and further This is important, as family is Into Business Programme delivered in Lynn Ross owner of ‘Hola Muchachos!” – education courses, and to increase acknowledged as being crucially partnership with Lisburn Enterprise profiled elsewhere in this issue – is a past the numbers achieving recognised important for individuals starting their Organisation. participant of the Graduate Into Business qualifications. own business by giving the entrepreneur Programme and is encouraging others access to additional sources of financial The launch of a new phase of the to take part. “Taking advantage of the and emotional support. programme saw tailored business support support offered by the Lisburn Graduate Returning to education can for local graduates who wish to start a into Business Programme I was able to seem daunting but we support business in Lisburn or who are already avail of bespoke mentoring, market plan NXT-GEN-BIZ is all about training and people along this journey. Our awareness with the goal of raising running a business. The scheme is part- development and guidance in general awareness of business and enterprise. financed by Invest NI and the European business management to launch my new team were hugely successful Practical assistance with accessing Regional Development Fund under the business, Hola Muchachos! I was also a in reaching out to local people Sustainable Competitiveness Programme for finalist in the award-winning Fly or Die business finance is offered, alongside and encouraging them to take workshops and mentoring support. It Northern Ireland. competition, which is part of the programme, includes a Level 2 business qualification, pitching my idea for a prize fund of £1000.” this first step, At the launch, Alderman Allan Ewart, driving lessons, business plan support, Patricia Brennan LEDCOM Project Manager access to incubation workspace, Chair of Lisburn City Council’s Economic Applicants must possess a HND or higher development of social media and Development Committee, said, “With qualification, and reside or run a business presentation skills, and the opportunity increasing competition in the job market within the Lisburn City Council area. All courses are delivered in local to network with other like-minded and a lack of graduate level jobs, many Previous programmes led to the start-up community venues by qualified NRC tutors young people. students are embracing entrepreneurship of 54 new businesses in sectors ranging targeted in particular at learners who are as a means of building their future career. from fashion design to the manufacture of currently unemployed and hold no more The young entrepreneurs will be Research suggests this generation of young medical devices. than one qualification at Level 2 or above. required to write weekly blogs and to adults are the most innovative, creative and participate in outreach events, including diverse. Over a quarter of graduates plan to The next round of the programme has It was delivered through the Learner a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style presentation. be running their own business by the age of recently started, providing participants Access and Engagement Programme, 25, while a third say they’ll be their own boss with an experienced mentor to guide them a Department for Employment and by the age of 30. This programme of business through the crucial business start-up phase. Learning (DEL) initiative..

Enterprise Northern Ireland Annual Review 2014 | 19 Classifieds Enterprise NI LEA Classifieds Start Up Loan Fund

We deliver two Business Support Acorn The Business Centre Craigavon Industrial Development North City Business Centre Ltd Programmes to help SMEs access capital. Ballymoney Organisation (CIDO) Belfast T 028 2766 6133 Craigavon T 028 9074 7470 ENTERPRISE NI START UP LOAN FUND W www.acornbusiness.co.uk T 028 3839 6520 W www.north-city.co.uk The Enterprise NI Start Up Loan Fund W www.cido.co.uk provides business loans to individuals Antrim Enterprise Agency North Down Development starting a new business. Antrim Down Business Centre Ltd Org. Ltd T 028 9446 7774 Downpatrick Bangor In the 12 months to September 2014, W www.antrimenterprise.com T 028 4461 6416 T 028 9127 1525 146 loans were drawn down, at a value of W www.downbc.co.uk W www.nddo.co.uk £727,100. Ards Business Centre Ltd Newtownards Dungannon Enterprise Centre Omagh Enterprise Company Ltd NI SMALL BUSINESS LOAN FUND T 028 9181 9787 Dungannon Omagh The Northern Ireland Small Business Loan W www.ardsbusiness.com T 028 8772 3489 T 028 8224 9494 Fund is part of Invest NI’s Access to Finance W www.dungannonenterprise.com W www.omaghenterprise.co.uk Strategy. The fund provides unsecured Argyle Business Centre loans to social enterprises and SMEs in the Belfast East Belfast Enterprise Ormeau Business Park micro enterprise sector in the start up and T 028 9023 3777 Belfast Belfast growth phases. W www.abcni.biz T 028 9094 2010 T 028 9033 9906 W www.eastbelfast.org W www.ormeaubusinesspark.com The fund helps to bridge gaps where other Armagh Business Centre Ltd funding options have been exhausted. Armagh Enterprise North West Ortus – The Business Loans range from £1k - £50k. T 028 3752 5050 Londonderry Development Agency W www.abcarmagh.com T 028 7135 2693 Belfast Up to April 2014 £1 million in loans had W www.north-westmarketing.com T 028 9031 1002 been distributed from the initial £5 million Ballymena Business Centre Ltd W www.ortus.org fund. Enterprise NI works alongside Ulster Ballymena Fermanagh Enterprise Ltd Community Investment Trust (UCIT) as T 028 2565 8616 Enniskillen Roe Valley Enterprises Ltd fund managers. W www.ballymenabusiness.co.uk T 028 6632 7348 Limavady W www.fermanaghenterprise.com T 028 7776 2323 Banbridge District W www.roevalleyenterprises.com Enterprises Ltd Inspire Business Centre Enterprise Banbridge Dundonald Strabane Enterprise Agency T 028 4066 2260 T 028 9055 7557 Strabane Northern Ireland W: www.bdelonline.com W www.inspirebusinesscentre.co.uk T 028 7138 2518 W www.seagency.co.uk Carrickfergus Enterprise Larne Enterprise Start Up Loans Agency Ltd Development Co. Ltd (LEDCOM) Townsend Enterprise Park Ltd Carrickfergus Larne Belfast Recipients T 028 9336 9528 T 028 2827 0742 T 028 9043 5778 W www.ceal.co.uk W www.ledcom.org Wwww.townsend.co.uk Shortlisted for Top Causeway Enterprise Agency Lisburn Enterprise Organisation Ltd Workspace - Coleraine Lisburn The Enterprise Agency UK Award T 028 7035 6318 T 028 9266 1160 Draperstown W www.causeway-enterprise.co.uk W www.lisburn-enterprise.co.uk T 028 7962 8113 Two of the semi-finalists for the UK-wide W www.workspace.org.uk ‘Big Start Up Loans Competition’ were Cookstown Enterprise Newry & Mourne Enterprise Agency from Northern Ireland. Both enterprises Centre Ltd Newry Work West Enterprise Agency have received support through Enterprise Cookstown T 028 3026 7011 Belfast NI initiatives. T 028 8676 3660 W www.nmea.net T 028 9061 0826 W www.cookstownenterprise.com W www.workwest.co.uk

Jonny Heywood, of Weight Loss Challenge Camp in Derry/Londonderry. received a loan from Enterprise NI Start Up Loans and managed to increase his customer base dramatically through effective advertising and marketing.

InnovateHER is a tailored programme designed to encourage entrepreneurship as The winner of the Northern Ireland a career choice for women. regional award was Vikki Bustard, who established Plant and Play Wildlife Garden Dungannon Enterprise Centre was awarded in Bangor, Co Down in April 2014. Vikki £20,000 by Ulster Bank parent Royal Bank of was delighted at being shortlisted and at Scotland for InnovateHer. winning the award.

20 | Enterprising NI The Voice of Enterprise